It’s no secret that Ram could potentially tap into lucrative opportunities by introducing a midsize pickup truck. Key competitors such as Ford, General Motors, Nissan, and Toyota have already seized this market—Ram’s affiliate Jeep even offers the Gladiator. Ram’s leadership acknowledges this market gap, but they are keen on following a strategic approach, much like the launch of the electric REV half-ton next year. Ram’s CEO Mike Koval Jr., in a recent discussion with MotorTrend, revealed that the automaker plans to unveil a midsize pickup concept to dealers in March.
Previous attempts by Ram to market a smaller truck in the US have faced challenges and did not materialize. The last offering, the Dakota, was available in 2011, coinciding with Ford discontinuing the Ranger. With a resurgence in truck popularity among Americans over the years, the market is ripe with opportunities. Even companies like Mitsubishi and Volkswagen are considering entering this growing segment.
While specific details remain scarce, there is enough information available to trigger speculation. According to MotorTrend, as the concept is still in its early stages, the platform choice is yet to be finalized. It is believed that Stellantis’ STLA Large framework could be a suitable foundation for this midsize truck, especially given the planned electrification. It is noteworthy that a vehicle silhouette resembling this concept was displayed during Stellantis’ EV Day in 2021.
If Ram’s midsize offering utilizes the STLA Large platform, its dimensions would align with current models like the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Nissan Frontier. This versatile platform is expected to serve as the base for various other models soon, including the Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S, as well as the upcoming electrified Dodge Challenger successor. Stellantis aims to leverage this platform across multiple car and truck models wherever feasible.
As we await further details on this midsize truck, the confirmation of this project by the automaker’s CEO indicates a serious commitment towards addressing market demands in the ever-growing segment. Customer demand in this sector continues to rise annually, underscoring the significance of such strategic product expansions.
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